What happens when you stop breastfeeding emotionally?

The Emotional Landscape of Weaning from Breastfeeding
Stopping breastfeeding is a significant transition for both mother and child, often accompanied by a complex mix of emotions. As mothers navigate this change, they may experience feelings ranging from sadness to relief, influenced by both hormonal shifts and the psychological aspects of weaning.
Hormonal Changes and Emotional Responses
When a mother stops breastfeeding, her body undergoes hormonal changes that can trigger emotional responses. The abrupt decrease in prolactin and oxytocin—hormones associated with milk production and bonding—can lead to feelings of sadness or loss. This emotional turbulence is not uncommon; many mothers report experiencing a sense of grief as they let go of this intimate phase of nurturing their child. The physical act of breastfeeding often fosters a deep emotional connection, and the cessation of this practice can leave a void that may be felt acutely.
Physical Changes and Their Emotional Impact
In addition to hormonal fluctuations, the physical changes that accompany weaning can also affect a mother’s emotional state. As the body adjusts to no longer producing milk, some women notice changes in breast appearance, which can contribute to feelings of insecurity or loss of femininity. The transition back to a pre-pregnancy body can be jarring, and for some, it may evoke a sense of nostalgia for the breastfeeding period, further complicating their emotional landscape.
The Psychological Aspect of Letting Go
The decision to stop breastfeeding is deeply personal and can be influenced by various factors, including the child’s readiness, the mother’s circumstances, and the dynamics of their relationship. For some mothers, the process of weaning can be a source of anxiety, particularly if they feel their child is not ready or if they have a strong emotional attachment to the act of nursing. This attachment can lead to a prolonged weaning process, as mothers grapple with their feelings about the change.
Conversely, some mothers may feel a sense of relief and freedom upon weaning, especially if breastfeeding has been physically or emotionally taxing. This duality of emotions—grief for the end of a cherished phase and relief from the demands of breastfeeding—can create a confusing emotional experience.
Support and Self-Compassion
Navigating the emotional aftermath of weaning can be challenging, but experts emphasize the importance of self-compassion during this transition. Mothers are encouraged to acknowledge their feelings, whether they are positive or negative, and to seek support from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing experiences with others who have gone through similar transitions can provide comfort and validation, helping mothers to process their emotions more effectively.
In conclusion, stopping breastfeeding is not merely a physical act; it is an emotional journey that can evoke a wide range of feelings. Understanding and acknowledging these emotions can help mothers navigate this significant life change with grace and self-compassion.

Is it normal to feel guilty after stopping breastfeeding?

When you stop breastfeeding, the shift in hormones can make you feel depressed, anxious and upset. It’s really normal, even if you are fully ready and happy to stop. Be kind to yourself and don’t for even a second feel guilty. You’ve done an amazing job and you’re a brilliant mum.

How to grieve the end of breastfeeding?

It might seem like a bit of a leap, but things which help at times of bereavement can help during breastfeeding loss too:

1. Talking about your feelings rather than bottling them up.
2. Look after yourself.
3. Be kind to yourself and take time to grieve.
4. Find ways to hold on to your memories of this special time.

What hormones drop when you stop breastfeeding?

“As women wean, the oxytocin stores start to go back to non-pregnant levels,” O’Neill says. “Oxytocin is known as the love hormone, so as it decreases you may feel sad, irritable or grumpy. Many women attribute this to fatigue, but the feeling is real and regulated by our hormones.”

What are the signs of low estrogen?

Signs of low estrogen include:

• Dry skin.
• Tender breasts.
• Weak or brittle bones.
• Trouble concentrating.
• Moodiness and irritability.
• Vaginal dryness or atrophy.
• Hot flashes and night sweats.
• Irregular periods or no periods (amenorrhea).

How long does anxiety from weaning last?

Baby blues typically involves mood swings, tearfulness, and feelings of overwhelm or anxiety, with the symptoms being short-lived and usually resolved within a few weeks. Post-weaning depression, on the other hand, can be more persistent and severe, with symptoms lasting for several weeks or even months.

What are the weird symptoms after stopping breastfeeding?

Other Strange Body Ailments Can Happen
Some might experience headaches or migraines, while others feel exhausted or even dizzy immediately after weaning. Another common post-weaning issue? Acne. Big hormone changes can really throw your body for a loop.

Will my baby love me less if I don’t breastfeed?

Bottle-feeding doesn’t affect your closeness
Yes, my son just wasn’t into breastfeeding. But, let me tell you, he’s so into me. Even at a year old, he wants me to hold him all the time.

How to emotionally detach from breastfeeding?

7 Ways To Stay Emotionally Healthy While Weaning Your Breastfed Baby

1. Wean slowly over time.
2. Have social support ready.
3. Write down your why.
4. Create a weaning plan.
5. Remember: You are a great mother no matter how you are feeding your child.
6. Talk about how you are feeling.
7. Cuddle your baby.

What are the psychological effects of stopping breastfeeding?

Even for those who are happy to be done breastfeeding or pumping, the days after weaning can be an emotional time. Some mamas feel tearful, sad or mildly depressed after their baby is done nursing. Others may feel irritable, anxious or moody.

Will my baby be sad if I stop breastfeeding?

Once your child’s digestive system is more mature, after the first birthday, introduce milk. If you stop breastfeeding before the first year of age, experts say you can also expect some fussiness and tears now and again as your baby makes the physical and emotional transition from breast to bottle.